Bias, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: How to Pick the Best Consultants?

Bias, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: How to Pick the Best Consultants?

WHY NOW? We have been receiving many requests recently for work on equity, diversity, and inclusion. We are not surprised, given the recent Black Lives Matter protests that highlight historic racism, renewed interested in #METoo subjects and other diversity issues. To ensure you receive the most for your investment in these endeavors, be sure that you understand how to pick the best consultants.

PAST MISTAKES: Many past efforts to address these issues have assumed that those causing problems were “bad” people: racist, sexist, homophobic and the like, who intentionally discriminated against or harassed others in the workplace. Work focused on “fixing” or disciplining these people. While, of course, there may have been some who fall into these categories, more current theories have emphasized both unconscious bias and microaggressions. These ideas help all of us understand that we each have biases, and that what works is not to deny that we have them but to keep uncovering these biases and making sure that we don’t act out on them – especially in the workplace.

UNDERSTAND THE LAW: When I ask new clients why they want to focus on these issues, they frequently cite examples that are not at all subtle but are clear violations of law or their organization’s policies. In other situations, we have been asked to undo harm created by previous consultants whose confrontive and unskillful work has created new legal problems for the organization.

What Should You Do?

USE A TEAM APPROACH: In order to select the best consultants, use a team to help you screen, interview, and select consultants. A diverse group will help you avoid your own blind spots and prevent biased choices.

In addition, we always use diverse training teams to conduct equity, inclusion and bias work so that we model the diversity we’re striving to help our clients achieve. Most groups appreciate hearing from the voices of diverse presenters.

DON’T FIGHT THE LAST WAR: Currently, many organizations are concerned about equity issues around black employees – rightfully so – and sensitive about sexual harassment. Both of these topics merit attention and yet current events may outrun your efforts to keep up with what is important. Make sure you cast a wide net when you consider diversity and inclusion issues, not just what is hot in the headlines.

CHOOSE CONSULTANTS WHO UNDERSTAND THE LAW: They do not have to be attorneys but they need to understand the law and the hidden minefields in this kind of work.

What Do You Think?

What has worked for your organization when you have selected equity, diversity and inclusion consultants? Call or write us at: 303-216-1020 or email Lynne@workplacesthatwork.com